International Students & Scholars Office
International Student Forms & Requests
Most immigration forms and requests for Cal State LA F-1 and J-1 students are submitted through the International Student Portal.
The portal allows you to submit requests, upload supporting documents, monitor your request, and access immigration documents issued by the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO).
How to Submit a Request
- Open the International Student Portal.
- Select MyCalStateLA and sign in with your Cal State LA credentials.
- Open the Control Center.
- Under What can we help you with?, select the request you need.
- Complete the required questions and upload any requested documentation.
- Review your information and select Submit.
You can also reach the International Student Portal through MyCalStateLA under the Academics section.
Common Requests Available in the Portal
The requests available to you may vary depending on your immigration status and where you are in your academic program.
Enrollment & Academic Status
- Reduced Course Load
- Program Extension
- Dual Registration / Concurrent Enrollment
- SEVIS Transfer Release
Employment & Practical Training
- On-Campus Employment Verification
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- STEM OPT Extension
Travel & Immigration Documents
- Travel Requests and Travel Signatures
- F-1 Status Verification Letters
- DMV Letter Requests
Program Extension Requests
If you will not complete your academic or exchange program by the program end date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019, contact ISSO and begin the appropriate extension process before your current program end date.
Federal rules governing how F-1 students are admitted to and remain in the United States are changing. Current and prospective students should review the latest Cal State LA guidance before making decisions involving international travel, program extensions, transfers, employment, or changes to academic plans.
Review the latest F-1 and J-1 Duration of Status information
After You Submit a Request
ISSO Reviews Your Request
ISSO will review the information and documentation you submitted. Requests are processed in the order received.
Watch for Follow-Up
If additional information or documentation is needed, ISSO will contact you through your Cal State LA email or the International Student Portal. Your request may not be completed until the requested information is received.
Retrieve Your Document
When an approved request results in a new or updated immigration document, it will be available in the Documents section of your International Student Portal.
Ready to Submit a Request?
Sign in with your MyCalStateLA credentials and open the Control Center.
Need Help?
If you cannot find the request you need in the International Student Portal, are unsure which request to submit, or have a question about your immigration situation, contact the International Students & Scholars Office.
International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO)
Library Palmer Wing, Room 4053
Phone: 323-343-3170